Working out gullet size

[ChelseaFilly]

Hi guys,

I'm very new to this saddle fitting business. I'm looking at getting a Wintec dressage saddle (interchangeable gullet) for my porky connie.

Before I buy one, try it and get the saddler to come out to fit it, please can someone tell me what part of my pony I need to measure to work out what gullet size he will be?

I've heard people mention the wire coat hanger trick before? Can someone please explain in fool proof steps?

Thank you loads!!

 

[Shady]

if you are definitely going for a Wintec saddle i would order the proper Wintec measuring kit and follow the instructions, we did this and it's easy, i was glad i did as he needed a wide gullet and i was convinced it would show med wide, sometimes you can find one second hand on ebay

 

[sbloom]

Wintecs won't commonly work on Connies, the ponies tend to have flat backs which Wintecs don't suit. The only real way to decide on gullet width is once it's in the saddle, I don't agree with using all the gauges etc, they do not replicate the rider's weight on the saddle. You would do well to ask the fitter to bring a range of gullets, or buy the 2-3 that you think might be about right (by all means use something like the Wintec gauge to judge that, just not to give an exact fit). The correct width gullet will give decent clearance and give an even contact down the front of the panel with no more pressure at the top of the panel that at the points.